Sam Berns, Mass. boy whose premature aging inspired film, dies

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) -- A Massachusetts boy with a rare genetic condition that accelerates the aging process and who became the subject of an HBO documentary has died. Sam Berns was 17.

Berns, of Foxborough, died Friday after complications from progeria (pro-JEER'-ee-uh). The Progeria Research Foundation announced his death.

Berns was diagnosed with progeria at 22 months. His parents founded the nonprofit foundation after encountering a lack of information and research on the fatal condition, whose victims live an average of 13 years.

New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft mourned Berns' death, saying he had invited him to be the team's honorary captain for Saturday night's playoff game and was looking forward to spending time with him.

Berns was the subject of an HBO documentary last year called "Life According to Sam."

My heart hurts for the loss of Sam. I loved watching his documentary. From one Lego fan to another, Sam you inspired me! My heart goes out to his parents, may you find a measure of comfort as the love comes towards you from the fans of your son Sam.